Another year of hip hop in the territory will be celebrated when Cypherfest begins Friday.

Events are planned for the general public in Whitehorse and Carcross, organizers said late last month. 

Preparations are underway to welcome 35-plus artists from across Canada. They’ll be camping at Cabins Over Crag Lake for the duration of Cypherfest, gaining a true Yukon experience, organizer said

They will join in a week of festivities that include battles, live music events and a market.

“After the success of last year’s Cypherfest, we’re looking forward to more dance, more music, more collaborations and an event that’s gonna be wild,” said Riley Simpson-Fowler, the festival’s artistic director.

“The Yukon’s definitely marking its territory as a place for hip hop on the national stage.” 

Three free events will be open to the public, including Friday’s dance battles at the Heart of Riverdale Community Centre and a block party. There will be music, lawn games, food trucks and a bouncy castle in the parking lot.

Saturday’s events at the skatepark in Carcross will include entertainment and a barbecue.

Sunday will feature a full afternoon of vendors and performances for all ages in Carcross.